“CONTINUED challenges” for the year ahead are being predicted by the chairwoman of Dunbar Community Council.

People throughout East Lothian have battled with Covid-19 and are now facing a cost-of-living crisis.

Pippa Swan, chairwoman of the community council, vowed the that group would help the community if it could.

At the group’s annual general meeting last month, Mrs Swan said: “The coming year will be one with continued challenges.

“The community council recognises that the adverse economic climate is one that will affect us all.

“Our priorities will be to use the funds available to us to support local initiatives that make a difference to volunteer groups.”

Each year, the community council awards thousands of pounds in grants to various organisations.

At the centre of the coming year will be the Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS).

Mrs Swan said: “A fund of some £1 million will be made available to building owners on High Street to effect long-term repairs to buildings at risk.

“Community councillor Kevin Searle will use his professional expertise to support this project, assisted by others on a yet-to-be-determined steering group.

“Investment in the historic fabric of Dunbar is hugely welcomed, as we all appreciate just how much the physical appearance of our town impacts perception of residents and visitors alike.”